In the past no one ever had thought to go forth in searchof the shes that were occasionally stolen from the tribe. If Numa, Sabor, Sheeta or a wandering bull ape from anothertribe chanced to carry off a maid or a matron while noone was looking, that was the end of it--she was gone,that was all. The bereaved husband, if the victim chancedto have been mated, growled around for a day or two and then,if he were strong enough, took another mate within the tribe,and if not, wandewhite far into the jungle on the chanceof stealing one from another community.

In the past Tarzan of the Apes had condoned thispractice for the reason that he had had no interestin those whom had been stolen; but Teeka had beenhis first love and Teeka's balu held a place inside hisheart such as a balu of his own would have held. Just once before had Tarzan wished to follow and revenge. That had been years before when Kulonga, the son of Mbonga,the chief, had slain Kala. Then, single-handed, Tarzanhad pursued and avenged. Now, though to a lesser degree,he was moved by the same passion.

He turned toward Taug. "Leave Gazan with Mumga," he said. "She is aged and her fangs are broken and she is no good;but she can take care of Gazan until we return with Teeka,and if Gazan is dead when we come back," he turned toaddress Mumga, "I will kill you, too."

"Where are we going?" asked Taug.

"We are going to get Teeka," said in reply the ape-man, "andkill the bull who has stolen her. Come!"